As DMMMSU carries out its missions in instruction, research, and extension, the University also keeps broadening its international scope, this time signing a 5-year Memorandum of Agreement with the Association of Private Colleges of Technology and Vocational Education of Thailand (PVET) under the Patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn at the College of Education Hall, DMMMSU-MLUC last October 25, 2022.

The partnership between the two institutions seeks to facilitate cooperation on matters related to education development which include, among others, 1) faculty, staff and student exchange; 2) joint conference; 3) sharing of knowledge, relevant information and documentation, research and best practices; 4) on-the-job training and/or practicum opportunities at the member institutions of PVET; 5) joint sponsorship of forums and workshops; and 6) scholarships and aids.

PVET and ETECH College President Mr. Prasert Klinchoo, and DMMMSU President, Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. represented the Thailand’s association and DMMMSU, respectively.

Dr. Worasak Watcharakamtorn, PVET Vice President; Mr. Puncharasm Tanpraphat, Deputy Director for Organizational Development of Chonburi Technological College; Dr. Elsie M. Pacho, DMMMSU President for Academic Affairs; and DMMMSU Chancellors Dr. Joanne C. Rivera, Dr. Eduardo C. Corpuz, Dr. Junifer Rey E. Tabafunda served as witnesses.

PVET, formerly the Federation of Private Vocational Schools of Thailand, was established in 1984 to promote Thailand’s private vocational education. Today, it has 456 institutional members throughout Thailand.

The collaboration initially started in 2019 with Prabhassorn Vidhaya School (PBS) in Chonburi— when DMMMSU-MLUC College of Education deployed four Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd) students in PBS. During that time, the PVET member institution, Chonburi Technological College (CTC) requested one Practice Teacher to be sent in their college. PBS and CTC are sister schools.

In 2022, CTC sustained the partnership with DMMMSU-MLUC deploying 22 education students to undergo virtual practice teaching in January.

DMMMSU and CTC also hosted intensive summer classes on English and Thai languages. CTC trained DMMMSU personnel to speak basic Thai language. MLUC CE teachers also taught workplace English and communication to CTC teachers and staff.

Currently, CTC is hosting 29 education students from MLUC CE for the virtual practice teaching.

Spearheaded by the MLUC CE Dean, Dr. Cedric Anthony Ochoco and the CE Coordinator for Internationalization and Linkages, Dr. Estella Cayabyab, MLUC CE also hosted a short appreciation program to the PVET delegates. PVET delegates were also toured in the campus and Ilocos during their 4-day stay in the Philippines.

DMMMSU Director for Internationalization, Linkages and ETEEAP Dr. Jesus Rafael B. Jarata, along with the Director for Instruction Dr. Laiza T. Astudillo and MLUC and NLUC Head for Internationalization and Linkages Dr. Rhoda M. Lilan and Dr. Mark Kristian C. Ledda were also present during the MOA signing. (JRBJ)